On my new go faster bike, I have installed spd pedals similar to the ones on my old bike. This means I can use the same shoes. no faffing and no need to buy new shoes. However, I hear people suggesting that I should be using road specific pedals and shoes. Hmmm. How much difference would changing to road specific pedals actually make. Is it really worth it for a percent or two increase in efficiency ? (what are the actual improvement figures?)
What difference do pedals make?
- Thread starter magnatom
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- Location
- The TerrorVortex
FWIW I found no difference between Look and SPD for cycling. SPD are a gazillion times better for walking to / from cafes and the like.
jpembroke
New Member
- Location
- Cheltenham
I've used SPDs on a road bike - and still use them on my MTB and 'cross bikes - but I much prefer Looks now for road use. They have a far bigger interface, feel stiffer, more secure and more comfortable on long rides. And you are far less likely to have accidental 'unclips' using Look-style pedals (usually and issue in sprints or hauling it up very steep hills). Agreed though, they are a pain in the a*se to walk on, but that's not what they are designed for.
papercorn2000
Senior Member
I use SPDs on all my winter bikes - trainer, commuter and fixie. Cleats last longer than Looks - don't feel any other difference.
Eat MY Dust
New Member
- Location
- Where ever I lay my hat (helmet)
"What difference do pedals make?"
Try taking them off and see how far you get!!
Try taking them off and see how far you get!!
jpembroke
New Member
- Location
- Cheltenham
Ooh, I've just thought of something. If you suffer from IT band pain, Look pedals allow you to lock your foot in one position or give a small amount of arc whereas SPD seem to let your foot float all over the place. My right foot naturally wants to point slightly inwards. Trouble is, if I let it get away with its evil plan I am crippled with pain from my IT band (outside of right knee) after about 30 miles. I have to lock that sucker down.
jpembroke said:
Actually, I'm a difficult case. Three knee operations on my right knee (judo took it's toll!). If I get knee pain, it tends to be in the inside of my knee.
EMD, my son did quite well on his wobble bike, so I might give it a go. I might even be able to go faster!
magnatom said:Actually, I'm a difficult case. Three knee operations on my right knee (judo took it's toll!). If I get knee pain, it tends to be in the inside of my knee.
EMD, my son did quite well on his wobble bike, so I might give it a go. I might even be able to go faster!
Snap. Three ops on right knee. But funnily it's the left knee which is giving me jip after using SPD's at the weekend. I must get the Frog pedals fixed on my road bike and see if they make any difference.
John the Monkey
Frivolous Cyclist
- Location
- Crewe
On longer rides, the smaller SPD cleat can cause problems for some people (a lot of pressure going through a relatively small area). I wouldn't really worry about it unless you're covering more than 20 miles, say (that's when I start to wish I'd changed my pedals over, in any case )
My experiences (SPD-SL vs SPD) are here, for what it's worth; http://www.cyclechat.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=12063&highlight=road+pedal
)My experiences (SPD-SL vs SPD) are here, for what it's worth; http://www.cyclechat.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=12063&highlight=road+pedal
fossyant
Ride It Like You Stole It!
- Location
- South Manchester
To keep costs down, then stick with SPD's. You won't notice much difference if you have a good stiff pair of shoes.
HLaB
Marie Attoinette Fan
When I first got a road bike I did similar to you (A510 spd pedals) before eventually upgrading to SPD-SLs. I never had a problem with a hot spot or whatever it is called, perhaps its because the A510's are tiuring pedals with a cage. I've since transferred them to my winter bike and invested in a stiffer soled pair of shoes and I don't think I notice the difference and the walkability issue is a big plus for me, especially at this time of year.
